Careers Advisor (0.6-Full time, Remote)

MVA is an award-winning online independent school for students aged 11 - 18. Founded in December 2020, we have become the fastest-growing independent school in the UK and have won multiple awards, including the National Business Award for Best Business in the UK with under 50 Staff in 2022.

Explore our website (https://www.minervavirtual.com/) to learn all about us, including our Four Pillars, Teachers, recent news and pupil/parent testimonials. You can also see an introductory video here.

We have an opportunity for a well-qualified, insightful, and committed Careers Advisor.

Role Overview

The Careers Advisor plays a crucial role in providing students with expert guidance on academic and career pathways. Working alongside the Careers Lead, this role is particularly focused on supporting high-performing athletes and international students, offering specialist advice on scholarship opportunities and university applications worldwide. The Careers Advisor will inspire students to explore their full potential by delivering personalised guidance and creating a supportive environment that fosters career readiness.

Careers Curriculum and Guidance

A core responsibility of this role is to contribute to the design and implementation of a comprehensive careers curriculum that aligns with national policies and best practices. The Careers Advisor ensures compliance with statutory requirements, including the Gatsby Benchmarks and the Baker Clause, while tailoring guidance to the needs of online learners. They will also manage key transition stages, such as GCSE and A-Level choices, and help students navigate their post-18 education and career options. Through one-on-one sessions, students will receive personalised support in developing college and university admission plans, particularly for institutions in the UK, Europe, and the United States.

University and Scholarship Support

Supporting students through the university application process is a vital part of this role. The Careers Advisor will organise and promote university fairs, workshops, and information sessions for both students and parents. They will guide students through application strategies, including Early Decision and Early Action pathways, and assist with personal statements, Common Application essays, and scholarship applications. Additional support includes advising on SAT/ACT preparation and collaborating with the EAL team to help students meet English proficiency requirements such as IELTS and TOEFL.

Impartial and Inclusive Career Guidance

Ensuring that students receive unbiased and personalised career advice is a key aspect of this role. The Careers Advisor will use virtual resources, online assessments, and interactive workshops to help students explore diverse career options. They will take into account students’ individual interests, strengths, and aspirations to provide tailored recommendations. Additionally, they will foster an inclusive environment where all students feel supported in pursuing their ambitions, regardless of background or circumstances.

Collaboration with Stakeholders

This role requires close collaboration with teachers, parents, and external organisations to enhance career education and guidance. The Careers Advisor will integrate careers education across year groups, working with subject teachers to embed career-related learning into the curriculum. They will also build relationships with alumni, employers, and professional organisations to create enrichment opportunities, such as work experience placements, industry insights, and speaker events.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Continuous Improvement

To ensure the effectiveness of the careers programme, the Careers Advisor will regularly monitor and evaluate student progress, maintaining accurate records and tracking outcomes. They will engage in professional development to stay informed about changes in the labour market and emerging career trends. In addition, they will oversee careers portals like Unifrog to provide students with up-to-date information and resources.

Support for Career Events and Resources

The Careers Advisor will play an active role in organising and promoting careers events, including information evenings, insight days, and work experience weeks. They will ensure that careers literature and online resources remain updated and relevant. Publicity and marketing of career-related opportunities will also be part of the role, ensuring that students and parents are well-informed about available support and pathways.

Impact and Student Success

This role is integral to helping students make well-informed decisions about their future. By offering expert guidance, maintaining an impartial approach, and fostering a culture of aspiration, the Careers Advisor will empower students to navigate their education and career choices with confidence.